Tuesday was a truly special day as we joined the Nevis Department of Gender Affairs to officially launch Phase 2 of the Nevis component of our Menstrual Health Education Project. This event brought together a coalition of partners, all committed to ensuring that menstrual health is prioritised as part of the overall wellbeing of women and girls in Nevis.
We were honoured to stand alongside the Health Promotion Unit Nevis, UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, the Advancement of Children Foundation (ACF) SKN, the Nevis Department of Education, the Nevis Department of Sports, and WASH United. The high-level support and participation at this event underscored the significance of a cross-sectoral, all-of-society approach to menstrual health—a crucial step in ensuring that women and girls can thrive in an environment that supports their health and dignity.
Inspiring Words from Our Speakers
The event featured an excellent lineup of speakers, each offering valuable insights into the importance of menstrual health education and our collective responsibility to address menstrual stigma, education, and access to resources. We extend our sincere thanks to:
- Hon. Jahnel Nisbett, Minister of Health, Gender Affairs, and Social Empowerment, Nevis
- Zahnela Claxton, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Sports and Library Services, Nevis
- Saros Hendrickson, Director, Department of Gender Affairs, Nevis
- Nadine Carty, Nevis Health Promotion Unit Coordinator, Ministry of Health
- Jamir Claxton, Director of Sports, Nevis
- Abi Begho, Programme Director, Lake Health and Wellbeing
- Lyston Skerritt, Adolescent Development Specialist, UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area
- Rodney Browne, Chairperson, Advancement of Children Foundation
- Ina Jurga, International Coordinator of Menstrual Hygiene Day & Thematic Lead for Menstrual Health and Hygiene, WASH United
- Jemecia Paul, Menstrual Health Educator, St. Kitts
The Voices of Young People
A particularly moving moment came when two students, Jaheem Sturge and Makanaka Chirima, shared their reflections on what they had learned during Phase 1 of the project. Their voices highlighted the impact of menstrual health education on breaking taboos, fostering confidence, and promoting inclusivity in schools and communities.
Moving Forward: Expanding Our Impact
Phase 2 in Nevis marks an important step in expanding our reach and impact. With more stakeholders engaged and an increasing commitment to menstrual health, we are optimistic about the positive change this initiative will bring to the lives of women and girls.
A special thank you to Jay Robinson, our Project Assistant, for moderating the event with enthusiasm and energy.
Next Stop: St. Kitts! Stay tuned as we roll out Phase 2 of our St. Kitts component.
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